Aston Villa make contact over Alex Moreno transfer?

Aston Villa have reportedly identified Real Betis defender Alex Moreno as a potential transfer target.

Having been brought in as a replacement for Steven Gerrard, new boss Unai Emery is expected to be provided with funds to make changes to his squad in January.

Villa have already been linked with a number of players from La Liga, a number of which ply their trade for Emery's former club Villarreal.

However, it would come as no surprise if Emery opted for another targets from Spain's top flight, and it is alleged that a Betis player is on his radar.

According to Relevo, the West Midlands outfit hold an interest in securing a January deal for Moreno.

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The report claims that Villa have already informed the player's representatives that they would like to sign the 29-year-old at the midway point of the campaign.

While Moreno has spent his entire career in his homeland, the left-back's best years have been during his time at Estadio Benito Villamarin.

Six goals and 14 assists have come from his 120 appearances in all competitions, helping Betis earn regular European football in recent seasons.

Despite Villa's alleged interest, Betis remain in a strong position with regards to his future due to his contract not expiring until 2025.

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Villa are currently well stocked for players who can play on the left-hand side of the defence, that role currently occupied by Lucas Digne.

Backup option Ludwig Augustinsson has barely featured in his opening four months at the club, making just two starts and one substitute outing.

While Villa have the option to sign the Sweden international on a permanent basis at the end of the season, that appears highly unlikely at this stage.

Nottingham Forest held an interest in Moreno earlier this year before they eventually signed Atletico Madrid's Renan Lodi.